All posts by Archie Ward

Archie is a long time traveller in Asia, as well as a blogger, writer and entrepreneur. He wishes he could spend more time in Indonesia.

North America, Travel Planning

Hawaii First Time: What’s The Best Island in Hawaii to Visit?

05/15/2017 Archie Ward Leave a comment

Deciding which Hawaiian island to visit for the first time you visit can seem a bit overwhelming. Each of the different major islands–Oahu, Hawaii island, Kauai, Maui–have something unique and different to offer travellers.

Oahu

Surfing at Waikiki Beach | © Alan Light/flickr — Surfing at Waikiki Beach | © Alan Light/Flickr

The beautiful island of Oahu offers the traveler many options. Whether you like the hustle and bustle of big city life in Honolulu; enjoy the serenity of nature in the magnificent Kuala mountains; or want to catch some surf vibes along the North Shore–Oahu has something for everybody!

On the island of Oahu, you’ll find a vibrant mix of culture, arts, and entertainment. There’s plenty of shopping available on Oahu. You can also visit museums, cultural centres, and even attend an authentic Luau.

If spending time on the beach is more your style–Oahu has a number of beaches that meet the needs of whatever beach style you prefer. If you like the busy beaches with plenty of people, bars, and restaurants then Waikiki Beach is a must. But if you prefer more to see a more laid back Hawaii–head to the North Shore and find beautiful sandy beaches with sea turtles, surfers, and unique Hawaiian eats.

Oahu is an island best suited for someone who wants the full Hawaiian experience. Urban explorers can wander Honolulu, culture absorbers will fall for the Polynesian Cultural Centre, history buffs can visit the hallowed grounds of Pearl Harbour, nature lovers can visit some of the greatest beaches and swim in some of the most magnificent water. It’s truly an island for everyone and is our choice as the best island for vacation in Hawaii.

Hawaii Island

Hiking Around the Cape Kumukahi Lighthouse | © Eli Duke/flickr — Hiking Around the Cape Kumukahi Lighthouse | © Eli Duke/Flickr

Hawaii Island, known as the Big Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian islands–with an area larger than all the other islands combined. This island offers unique biomes with eleven different climatic zones–you can visit sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains, and active volcanoes–all on one island!

The Big Island is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park–a national treasure and the largest volcano on the islands, Kilauea is a must see. You can go hiking and find waterfalls, natural pools, and lush green mountains on Hawaii Island. If you’re lucky, you may encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and whales.

Even the beaches of the Big Island have their own unique characteristics from the black sand on Punalu’u Beach, the white sand on Hāpuna Beach, to the green sand on Papakōlea Beach–these beaches really have something to marvel over.

Hawaii Island is best suited for the naturalist. The variety of climatic zones available on the island brings a depth of life that cannot be matched anywhere else. Active volcanoes, colourful beaches, and incredible landscapes await on the Big Island.

Maui

Sunrise at Haleakala National Park | © Courtney Collison/flickr — Sunrise at Haleakala National Park | © Courtney Collison/Flickr

Even hearing the name Maui invokes a relaxed, calm, island vibe. There is perhaps a no better word to associate with Hawaii than Maui. 30 miles of beaches, the ancient volcano–Haleakala, and the spectacular waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch are but a few highlights for those that wish to visit the old Hawaii.

Maui is a terrific year round destination with its mild, consistent weather allowing visitors to enjoy the island at its most brilliant. Beaches for every type line the island’s perimeter. Secluded beaches await those looking for privacy. The sports enthusiasts will enjoy the largest surfable waves in North America. Head to the windy side to take up your new favourite hobby of kiteboarding. Want to relax and spend a day on the water without the water thrashing your body–snorkelling meccas are everywhere.

The island is also home to some of the greatest hiking trails in the word. Maui is host to Haleakala National Park. Celebrating Hawaiian culture–both modern and ancient–the park offers a taste of history. Learn how the interactions humans make on their environment shapes the landscape. Don’t want to spend your time inside the fascinating museums–grab your backpack and spend a night under the darkest sky imaginable. Gaze up at the milky way with your naked eye as you fall asleep in the Hawaiian wilderness.

The people of Maui’s dedication to eco-friendly and sustainable farming means that a lot of the food produced on the island stays on the island. It’s a wonderful island for foodies as the locavore scene is exploding. Farm to table restaurants highlighting the glory of Hawaiian food culture dot the island.

Maui is an island best suited for the outdoor loving foodie. After a long day of hiking and exploring, coming back to your hotel, home, or camp with some of the tastiest local food imaginable…priceless.

Kauai

The Top View of Hanalei Bay | © ruthdaniel3444/flickr — The Top View of Hanalei Bay | © ruthdaniel3444/Flickr

Located in the centre of the Hawaiian archipelago lies Kauai. Perhaps the most beautiful of the Hawaiian islands–Kauai is home to some of the best beaches and mountain ranges in the world.

Kauai lays claim to one of the best beaches to visit in Hawaii. Hanalei Bay is a haven for water lovers. Surrounded by majestic forested mountains, to say this location is picturesque doesn’t do it enough justice. In the summer, the ocean’s waves calm and the water is as still as glass. Outside of the summer, surfers from around the world come to enjoy the beauty and splendour of Hanalei Bay.

Known as perhaps the most gorgeous landscape in the United States and perhaps the earth, the Na Pali coastline invites you to take in the lush, tropical environment. See this wonder of geology, with its rocky crags and dense, green foliage by sea, air, or, for the more adventurous, by foot along one of the greatest hiking trails in the world–The Kailua Trail.

Kauai is an island suited best for the adventurous and active. Getting out and interacting with this incredible island is key to the ultimate Kauai experience.

Choosing where to stay in Hawaii doesn’t have to be a difficult decision. Just think about what you want out of your next vacation. Whether it’s beaches, fine dining, city life, history, or wild landscapes–Hawaii has something for everyone. The best island for vacation in Hawaii is the one that will provide you with the most long-lasting memories that you can share with others.

Destinations, Editor's Picks, Sport and Adventure, Travel Blogging, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

3 Extreme Sydney Adventures You Can’t Miss

01/25/2016 Archie Ward 2 Comments

In the land down under, there is no shortage of things to do. If you’re traveling to the most populated city in this land of extremes, you may be searching for the most extreme experiences to write home about. Here’s a few of the adventure sports Sydney has to offer your starved adrenaline glands.

Shark Dive in Sydney

This Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary shark dive will take your breath away. Well, not literally, as they do provide oxygen for all divers. But when you dip your toes into the main oceanarium and you see sharks, stingrays, and turtles circling you, you’ll wish everyone could witness you frolicking in this underwater wonderland. At 30 minutes long, this dive may seem short, until you remember you’ll be surrounded by sharks with sharp teeth that might bite you if they weren’t well-fed. After contemplating that, 30 minutes sounds like more than enough time to get a shot with your favorite enormous sea creature.

Jetboat Sydney Harbour

If you haven’t heard of jetboating, imagine sitting in a boat with your closest family and friends. Now imagine a madman takes the wheel. That’s the gist, and it’s way more fun than it sounds. This boat is designed for maximum speed and maneuverability, so you’ll be getting drenched as your skilled driver makes 180 and 270-degree spins, intense fishtails, turns and powerslides at high speeds. Every now and then, you’ll get a chance to breathe and take in the beautiful sights of Sydney Harbor as well. Just hold on tight!

Canyon in the Blue Mountains

If you’re looking for a challenging abseiling experience that mashes the thrill of witnessing pristine nature and adrenaline-pumping physical activity, canyoning in the Blue Mountains is for you. You’ll adventure through the highest and deepest of the canyon as you navigate the breathtaking terrain. Trek, climb, jump, swim, and rappel your way through Australia’s most beautiful region to get a personal look at untouched caves and magnificent waterfalls. There’s two difficulties to choose from, so if you aren’t up for the challenging Rainforest Canyoning experience, the beginner-friendly Empress Canyon welcomes you.

There’s plenty to do in Harbour City, but these experiences are guaranteed to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re an underwater adventurer, fan of extreme water-sports, or a hiker who enjoys a challenge, you’ll be happy you made it to Sydney.

Australia, Destinations, Editor's Picks, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

5 Interesting Places to Visit in Sydney

01/19/2016 Archie Ward Leave a comment

With its outstanding skyscrapers towering against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, Sydney, Australia, is considered by many as one of the most beautiful metropolitan areas in the world. Sydney is bustling with life and energy and provides a broad range of attractions and activities in which visitors can indulge when on holiday. Tourists can choose from a variety of options with something to please everyone. Below are five fun things to do in Sydney city:

The Sydney Opera House

Sydney boasts one of the world’s most renowned theatres, called the Sydney Opera House. Here, more than 1,000 performances take place on an annual basis. The Opera House, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to multiple stages where performances occur every day of the year. Anyone visiting the city will not want to miss a trip to this outstanding theatre.

The Harbour Bridge

The Harbour Bridge, which is arguably Australia’s most well-known symbol, is another attraction holidaymakers should place on their must-see list. This one-of-a-kind structure can be used as a viewing platform from where visitors can take in the spectacular landscape that surrounds the bridge. Walking across the famous arch is a popular activity among local residents and holidaymakers alike, and such an experience will never be forgotten.

Shopping and Nightlife

Sydney is also considered one of the world’s most fashionable cities by numerous designers across the globe. Australian Fashion Week, which is hosted by the city each year, is a favourite event of both consumers and those who own shops, boutiques, discount outlets or other apparel establishments. The city is also well known for its exciting and boisterous nightlife, where something can be found to please all travellers, from trendy nightclubs to traditional restaurants and bars. Kings Crossing and Circular Quay are two of the best areas for nightlife and shopping opportunities in Sydney.

Sydney’s Darling Quarter

The Darling Quarter should not be overlooked by any Sydney visitor, as a trip to this interesting and beautiful area is sure to be an intriguing experience. Sydney’s Darling Quarter is a new and vibrant community created by local builders and architects. It features beautifully designed buildings in contemporary style, as well as green open spaces, a vast array of cafés and bars, a wide selection of eateries featuring cuisine from around the world, and numerous children’s playgrounds and recreational areas.

The Rocks

Situated in the Circular Quay area is the city’s oldest and most beautiful colonial district. Often referred to by local residents as “The Rocks,” this part of the city is home to numerous pubs, shops, restaurants, art galleries and even a small museum. Settled at the end of the 18th century, The Rocks is a terrific starting point from which holidaymakers can begin a day of sightseeing and shopping.

With all the fun things to do in Sydney city, it is easy to find something to please any type of traveller. For this reason, a sojourn in this lovely and engaging Metropolis is guaranteed to be a one-of-a-kind experience.

Asia, Destinations

Guide to Thailand: 5 Famous Cities to Visit in Thailand

01/13/2016 Archie Ward Leave a comment

Thailand has been an appealing place to visit for many years. Annually, around 30 million tourists visit this country. Many newcomers are astounded by its natural beauty and exotic culture.

When it comes to “Thailand where to visit” is among the top questions. Here we present the top 5 places you must visit in Thailand to really get to know this Southeast Asian nation.

The North: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has been gaining in popularity in recent years. It is an alternative to Thai beaches as it is surrounded by scenic mountains and beautiful forests. It is not as hot as in the south, but the climate is warm and pleasant.

Chiang Mai also has many cultural attraction, including temples. Traveling to Chiang Mai is easy and inexpensive from other locations in the region, especially when it comes to getting there by bus.

The Center: Bangkok and Pattaya

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand. Those seeking nightlife will not be disappointed. In addition to partying, there are many world-class cultural spots to visit such as Grand Palace, Wat Pho, or Lumphini Park.

Another great attraction is to take a boat ride through Bangkok’s canals and see how the locals live. A truly amazing experience.

Near to Bangkok, there’s a beautiful seaside town of Pattaya. It offers beautiful beaches and opportunities to party or relax. It’s proximity to the capital makes it a magnet for tourists and capital’s residents.

The South: Phuket and Krabi

Phuket is an island located in the south of Thailand. It is one of the most famous places for beach vacations in the region. There are many other things to do, such as going on island hopping, snorkeling, or scuba diving.

Many visitors to Phuket go to see Phi Phi Islands with amazingly-shaped islands sticking out of the sea. The James Bond Island is also nearby.

Right across from Phuket, on the mainland, is the town of Krabi. For some, it is good alternative to Phuket. One of the biggest attractions nearby is the Railay Beach, a short boat ride away. Rock climbing fans like to visit this spot for some amazing adventures.

Thailand is a truly amazing country. A great place to relax or party, or do both.

Many newcomers like to ask: How cheap is it to live in Thailand? you can check this post to find out. It all depends on where you go, but it is definitely cheaper than in most Western countries.

Australia, Celebrity Chefs, Destinations, Food, Restaurant Reviews, Street Food Guide

The New Asian Cuisine Hub: Must-Visit Restaurants in Brisbane

09/02/2015 Archie Ward Leave a comment

Brisbane has become the epicenter of modern and creative Asian cuisine. Incidentally, Brisbane’s Asian restaurants are also some of the best restaurants in Brisbane. For your road trips in Australia, these restaurants are a must-visit.

FantAsia

FantAsia Brisbane offers Asian fast food. By using traditional cooking methods and local, seasonal produce, FantAsia delivers fresh and authentic Asian flavors without the price and wait of typical Asian cuisine restaurants.

The main attraction at FantAsia is the Tokyo Beef entree, which complements the lemongrass and ginger tea.

Sake

Sake Restaurant and Bar focuses on contemporary Japanese cuisine with hints of California and European flavors. The restaurant offers private dining rooms as well as communal banquet dining area.

Sake’s signature dishes include steamed prawn dumplings and ‘glacier 51’ tooth-fish lettuce cups.

Asian-Szechuan Bang Bang Cuisine

Inspired by the traditional cuisine of the Sichuan Province, Asian-Szechuan has brought Southwest China flavors to Brisbane. Cooking methods that date back 2,000 years add to the customary tang.

Black fungus and tofu skin salad with garlic and chili oil is offered as an entrée. The less adventurous can opt for a classic dish like Sichuan beef hot pot.

Golden Barbeque

Focusing on classic Chinese BBQ, Golden Barbeque offers large portions and authentic flavors. This hidden gem offers a mom and pop environment with economic prices. Check out their staple dish of BBQ duck.

Taigum Gardens

Taigum Gardens has a vast array of Chinese cuisine options inspired by multiple Chinese delicacies. Large portions and high-quality meats can be expected from this quint restaurant, which is geared to adults. Must-try dishes include the crispy honey beef, the traditional roast duck, and the mango ice cream.

Happy Boy

Located on Mein St., this hidden gem focuses on Chinese cuisine with hints of French and Italian inspiration. Happy Boy offers a small, charming space in a converted warehouse. Recommendations include the dried fried green beans, salt and pepper prawns and pork belly sliders.

Bird’s Nest Yakitori & Bar

Bird’s Nest brings traditional Japanese Yakitori to Brisbane. Using solely fresh, free-range meats and organic produce, Bird’s Nest offers multiple gluten-free and vegetarian options. They specialize in skewers with beef, chicken, veggies, tofu and/or pork belly.

Paddington Curry House

Specializing in Indian and Nepalese cuisine, Paddington Curry House provides complementary rice with every curry order. Staples include paneer tikka, an Indian cheese marinated in tandoori spices then grilled to perfection, and traditional chicken malai tikka. Their goat curry is a staple for every curry fanatic.

Citron Restaurant

For anyone who enjoys modern twists to their Asian cuisine will fall in love with Citron. Owned and operated by Robert Foley, previously of Piccolo Restaurant, and notable chef Mark Newman. Citron is the only restaurant in town where eaters can find green tea salt calamari with ginger chili dipping sauce.

Fat Noodle Restaurant

Fat Noodle was created by famed chef Luke Nguyen, and includes a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai and Malay dishes. Nguyen’s signature dish is Fat Pho Noodles, which consists of a 20-hour beef broth, bean sprouts, fresh Thai basil, fresh chili and rice noodles.

Australia, Destinations, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Top 5 Aussie Road Trips

08/31/2015 Archie Ward

The vast territory that is Australia has much to offer. Each region is unique and has spectaculars landscape that must be explored and experienced. Indulge in a holiday of a lifetime and plan a road trip to see the country. Take a week or two, pack the bags, gather the family, load the vehicle and take snacks for the best Aussie road trips. Driving ensures that you do not miss anything between starting and finishing destinations. Take your time and visit some of the most amazing areas on the continent.

1) Great Ocean Road-Victoria

The journey along the southern coast requires a few days in order to make the most of the trip. The destination is renowned around the world for its natural beauty and sites. The famous iconic adventure spans more than 250 kilometres from Torquay to Warrnambool. In addition to the wondrous coastal scenery, the drive provides the chance to stop and encounter wildlife, go hiking, gaze at cascading waterfalls and grab a meal at one of the local beachside communities. Take photographs of the unique formations known as the 12 Apostles. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters of the Lock Ard Gorge. See the adorable koalas at Kennett River.

2) Red Centre Way-Northern Territory

While many prefer to take the Stuart Highway from Alice Springs to Uluru, the Red Centre Way is infinitely more scenic. Along the way, you will happen upon picturesque canyons and gorges that feature camping and hiking locations. Make a point of being there for an amazing sunrise or sunset. Watch Uluru change colour throughout the course of the day. Take the base walk. Guests of all ages enjoy the memorable camel rides. Stop at nearby Kata Tjuta. Trek through Kings Canyon and along the shores of Glen Helen Gorge. Take a dip in the cool waters of Ormiston Gorge.

3) The Savannah Way-Queensland

Start in the east at Cairns and venture the 3,700 kilometres to Broome in the west. While in Cairns, drive to Undara Volcanic National Park and explore the ancient lava tubes. Gem fossicking is also popular here and might gain a participant anything from aquamarine or quartz gemstones to gold. Make a point of going south of Millaa Millaa and see the most photographed falls in the country. Stay on the lookout for the Ulysses butterfly. Maybe catch a glimpse of a platypus later in the afternoon. The destination is a popular swimming spot and perfects for BBQs and picnics. There are also changing rooms and toilets.

4) Cairns to Cape Tribulation

An eastern coast adventure brings guests to the tropical environs of North Queensland. The iconic scenic region is considered one of the most enchanting destinations on the planet. The reduced humidity during the winter months is more desirable. There are also fewer stinging insects to spoil the trip. Highlights here not to miss include the chance to snorkel or scuba along the Great Barrier Reef. Scramble across the rocks at Mossman Gorge and learn more about the area at the Daintree Discovery Centre.

5) Sydney to Brisbane

The Legendary Pacific Coast remains one of Australia’s most popular road trips. The 900-kilometre drive offers something for visitors of all ages. Tour a winery and sample the vintages in Hunter Valley. Stroll along the coastal promenade at Port Macquarie. Take in the sunset at Coffs Coast or Byron Bay. Take the whole family swimming in the clear blue protected waters of Kingscliff.

Australia, Destinations

Go Wild – Explore Tasmania’s Top Cultural and Pristine Nature Destinations

08/15/2015 Archie Ward Leave a comment

Whether you want to spend your weekend in Tasmania enjoying the pristine beaches, take a longer trip to explore the rugged wilderness that Tasmania is famous for or experience a bit of culture and fine cuisine, there is much to see and do for the whole family.

Wilderness-bound: Cradle Mountain National Park

Take an excursion in the countryside to Tasmania’s famous Cradle Mountain National Park area. Hire a car and drive up to Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair, a World Heritage Site. There are picturesque hiking trails, waterfalls, glaciers, lakes and cool crisp mountain streams. You can also arrange to explore the area by horseback. The area is famous for its friendliness and hospitality, with first class accommodation options just neighboring the National Park.

Touring Freycinet Peninsula and Wineglass Bay

Situated midway along the east coast of Tasmania is the Freycinet Peninsula, with its red and pink granite mountains and pure white sandy beaches. A veritable paradise for kayakers and swimmers on the sheltered landward side of the bay while on the seaward side, photographers can climb to the top for an incredible view. Charter a cruise or hike for the day on one of the many trails in the Freycinet National Park.

MONA Museum of Old and New Art

The MONA Museum in Hobart, opened in 2011, is renowned for its unique buildings and exhibitions. A definite must as you pass through Hobart, MONA is also within one of Tasmania’s premier wineries, the Moorilla winery. Be prepared to step outside your comfort zone and experience the true passion and pure talent as you explore the permanent and rotation collections of this museum. To give you an idea, the founder of the museum, David Walsh describes the museum as a “subversive adult Disneyland.” Before you go on your trip, check the dates for the annually hosted wintertime Dark Mofo Festival, a huge public art exhibition with art, film, and music – not your ordinary solstice celebration.

Sullivan’s Cove and Salamanca Markets

Hobart is also famous for Salamanca Place within Sullivan’s Cove, where you can visit the regular Saturday Salamanca market. It comes alive with traditional Tasmanian artisans, fresh produce, coffee and tasty confections. More than your average tourist attraction, you can experience the heart of Tasmanian life here. Enjoy your treats while sitting down at a table overlooking Hobart’s waterfront. This important historical area is where Hobart was established in 1804. Accordingly, Sullivan’s Cove features some of the oldest buildings in Australia. Besides visiting the Saturday market, take advantage of the thriving arts scene along Salamanca Place, with many art galleries and live entertainment venues.

Fishing in the Central Highlands

Travel out of the cities and into the heart of Tasmania to the Central Highlands, famous for the largest freshwater lake in Australia, Great Lake, which is also the home of Tasmania’s hydroelectric supply. Great Lake, Lake King William, Pine Lagoon and Arthur’s Lake are just some of the waters in which you might cast your line – there are literally hundreds of lakes in this region filled with trout.

Australia, Cultural and Historical Heritage, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

4 Places to Visit in Bathurst!

07/30/2015 Archie Ward Leave a comment

Bathurst is a pleasant destination for those travellers that are looking for a new and satisfying place to visit in Australia. This quiet city is highlighted by interesting historical locations and incredible picturesque views.

Australian Mineral & Fossil Museum

For those individuals who love taking a historical look at the Bathurst area, the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum is a fantastic place to check out. This hot spot is actually the home of the Somerville Collection, which is an internationally renowed collection of the work from Professor Warren Somerville. Within this museum, you will be treated to all kinds of rare fossils and minerals from around the globe. Of course, though, there are also a good amount of specimens showed here right from Australia. These really are the world’s finest assortment of minerals and fossils.

Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre

The Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre is a 650 seat Theatre City Hall that can hold up to 1100 people. Here, visitors are treated to all kinds of shows, plays and productions. There are also four conference rooms located here, which is ideal for seminars and other meetings. This Entertainment Center is a member of the APACA Publication. It’s open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.

National Motor Racing Museum

Anyone in Bathurst that loves motor racing needs to take a look at the National Racing Museum. This is a museum that truly celebrates and enlightens all visitors on the history, racers and overall achievements of Australian Motor Sports. This includes the history of items like the speedway, drag, solar, rallying, open wheeler. There is also information here on sports car and the opportunity to see touring cars. The two main displays found at the National Motor Racing Museum are the Mount Panorama and the Bathurst 1000. The history of Motorbike racing is heavily focused on here.

Turon Technology Museum

Engines are a big draw here in Bathust, which is what you will get to see up-close in Turon Technology Museum. This museum homes a bunch of different exhibits on the development of the stream and internal engine and how it eventually transitioned into the internal combustion engine and then the stream engine. The Turon Technology Museum is not your average Australian museum. Visitors can attend guided tours here that take roughly two hours. However, there are many different attendees that will stay at the Turon Technology Museum for five hours or more. There is no rush to leave here, as visitors can also sit down and enjoy the beautiful nearby scenery with a lazy lunch.

Africa, Destinations, Editor's Picks

The 10 Most Exciting Safari Camps in Africa

02/16/2015 Archie Ward 1 Comment

Traveling to an African Safari Camp is one of the most exciting adventures you’ll ever have. Africa is a continent of beautiful, sandy beaches, spectacular mountains, and coral reefs teeming with marine life. A Safari Camp offers the opportunity to see the African plains, lush, green jungles, and some of the most magnificent wildlife in the world. Here are the top Safari Camps to visit:

1. Chitabe Lediba Camp

Chitabe Lediba Camp is on an island in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. The camp at a lagoon that’s now a waterhole is known for the diverse habitats and spectacular wildlife sightings. The camp is perfect for small groups, with panoramic views from the lounge and pool.

2. Kwando Camp

Kwando Camp on the Namibian Caprivi Strip offers guest accommodations, day safaris to the Mamili and Mudumu National Parks, cruises, and game drives.

3. Sasakwa and the Singita Grumeti Reserves

Located in the Serengeti National Park in Northern Tanzania, the game reserves is famous for the massive protected area where wildlife in the Great Migration roams free and protected.

4. Alex Walker’s Serian

This camp in the Serengeti National Park in Northern Tanzania is known for being one of the mobile camps that follows the Great Migration. Between December and March, guests can follow the herds, see how the tribes live, and explore the Rift Valley. A great feature is that guests never know what wildlife they’ll see each day.

5. Tafika

Tafika and Remote Africa’s bush camps are in the Luangwa Valley in Central Zambia. The camps are famous for the massive numbers of wildlife and their walking safaris. The guides lead groups into Chikoko, Mwaleshi, and the North and South Luangwa at Crocodile Camp.

Trip to Africa — Catered Camp – Selous Game Reserve

6. Beho Beho, Selous Game Reserve

Beho Beho in Southern Tanzania features luxurious accommodations in the oldest game reserve in Africa. Guides take guests on walking tours into the most remote locations in Africa.

7. Old Mondoro

Old Mondoro camp in the Lower Zambezi National Park is in Southern Zambia. The camp is on the Zambezi River and is one of the smallest in Africa. Some of the finest canoeing and boating in Africa is found on the river. Day and night game drives and walking tours are available.

Mombo Camp - Moremi Game Reserve — Mombo Camp – Moremi Game Reserve

8. Mombo Camp

Located on the Moremi Game Reserve in Northern Botswana, the Mombo Camp has an excellent reputation. Although the activities are rather limited since walking tours and driving at night aren’t omitted, it’s one of the best camps for viewing massive numbers of African wildlife.

9. The Schoeman’s Skeleton Coast Safaris

Kunene Camp in Northern Namibia, offers, private, guided tours by the owners, in the most remote area of Africa. The camp doesn’t have the amenities found at some of the other camps, but the location on the top of a cliff is breathtaking. The camp is situated above the Kunene River and offers spectacular views.

10. Savuti Camp

Savuti Camp Located in Linyanti Reserve in Northern Botswana, is one of the finest of the smaller camps. The private preserve offers guests access to some of the most remote wilderness in Africa. the camp is on the Linyanti River and offers wonderful wildlife viewing.

Destinations, Editor's Picks, Indonesia

Bali Tourism from China to Rise in 2015

02/11/2015 Archie Ward

Hoping to increase tourism to Bali in the coming year, Ctrip, a Chinese online tourism company, named Bali the best tourist destination. At an award ceremony on January 13th, the online company also doled out two more awards to Bali. They also received the Best Island Tourist Destination Award and the Best Overseas Tourism City Award.

Many Chinese officers and business people attend the event each year. This year the awards ceremony was held in Lijiang city in Yunnan province, China.

Ctrip is an online marketing company, where tourists can book their vacations. The website offers cheap flights, hotels, train tickets, vacation packages and corporate travel. The site maintains over half of China’s tourism market online. They account for over 60,000,000 members and have over 30,000,000 user reviews. They are one of the biggest networks in China with over 70,000 hotels in China and 1,600 flight routes in the country. Internationally, they serve over 9,000 flight routes and 400,000 hotels in almost 200 countries.

“We hope these awards increase the number of tourists, particularly those from China, visiting Indonesia this year and in the years to come,” Indonesian Tourism Minister Arief Yahya said.

To focus on drawing more tourism from China, Arief Yaha stated that Bali will use online tools, like Facebook, Twitter and Youtube to attract more tourism to the island. The country will also begin to utilize platforms such as blogs to educate tourists on the benefits of travelling to Bali, like Bali’s amazing beaches and rich culture. The country will also use these platforms to broadcast travel deals and travel information to Chinese tourists.

“As much as 70 percent of Chinese tourists get their information on Indonesia through the Internet. It is a challenge for the ministry to boost promotion strategies through digital media,” Yahya said after the awards ceremony.

Currently, almost 884,000 tourists from China visited Indonesia in 2014, between January and December. Chinese travelers spent on average around four to five days in Bali, and spent approximately $100 USD to $110 UDS per day for each day they spent there.

Soon, direct flights will be offered to Bali from China and Indonesia, making the island more accessible to the countries and more attractive for tourists. Both the ministry and the China National Tourism Administration will be attempting to get more tourists to both Indonesia and China by 2015. Their goal is to increase tourism to 2 million people by this time, more than doubling the number of Chinese tourists who visit Bali in a year. Bali is sure to become one Indonesia’s top tourism destination.

The Chinese tourism market has grown substantially in the past few years as living standards and personal incomes have risen in the country. Both outbound and inbound tourism has seen a significant rise in the past year. Chinese tourists have begun heading to overseas travel destination such as Australia, France, the United States and the Maldives. They have also been exploring Asian countries, like Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia and Thailand. Travel throughout China has also increased substantially by Chinese residents, and local tourism has grown by 10% each year.

Chinese tourists accounted for 109 million people in 2014, an increase of 11%. Chinese residents can now visit 151 countries overseas and that number is expected to increase within the next year.

Popular Chinese travel destination include cities like Beijing, Xian Guilin, Hong Kong, Lijiang and Shanghai. China will see 43 million more tourists flocking to their cities within the next 20 years, and by 2030, officials expect to see 1.8 billion tourists breaching their borders. With so many tourists coming in and out of the country, it’s no wonder both Bali and China have increased efforts to see more travel between their two countries, making both a prime tourism destination.

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